Mormon church says Book of Abraham likely not a literal translation, but inspired scripture

SALT LAKE CITY – A new article from the Mormon church says the Book of Abraham is inspired scripture and probably not a literal translation from ancient Egyptian scrolls by Mormon founder Joseph Smith

Mormon scholars say the essay marks a departure from past explanations by officials with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and embraces the widely-held view from religious scholars and historians that Smith's work isn't a direct translation.

The article suggests God may have helped Smith understand what was in the scrolls. Smith never claimed to know the language it was in.

It is the latest in a series of recent online pieces posted on the church website that explain, expand or clarify on some of the more sensitive gospel topics.